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Developing Interest and Relating Scientific Learning to the Wider World
Developing and Communicating Scientific Understanding

Down by the Sea

Teachers' notes
Progress indicators
What the work shows Curriculum links The learning context Where to next

What the work shows

Sam and Laura's summary chart shows a collaborative record of their observations at the rocky pool, and their attempts to explain them. The chart demonstrates what happens when students combine active observation with research to answer their own questions.

Sam and Laura's summary chart of the rock pool creatures

Sam and Laura's summary chart of the rock pool creatures

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View transcript of student work


Progress Indicators

Developing Interest and Relating Scientific Learning to the Wider World

Caring for the environment
Sam and Laura discuss how humans use living things and the environment.

Experiencing and showing awe, wonder and interest
Sam and Laura express awe, wonder and enthusiasm about their observations and explanations and are prepared to share with, and involve others in their own interest in science when they suggest ways in which they could offer advice to younger family members.

Developing and Communicating Scientific Understanding

Using scientific ideas in constructing explanations
Sam and Laura construct a plausible explanation for an experience (using an analogy) in stating "Starfish are the terrorists of the sea".

Using scientific vocabulary
Sam and Laura use some correct scientific vocabulary in their summary chart, for example: herbivore, carnivore, minerals, tissue.

Reflecting on their understanding
Sam and Laura show changes in their own scientific ideas when they comment about how creatures have adapted to suit conditions.


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